Jan 03Homeless, Housed, Homeowner, Harvard
Rahel’s life was thrown into chaos when she decided to leave her home out of fear for the safety of her two children, who were two and five years old at the time. But it wasn’t just her home life that was upended. To escape completely, she also quit her job without a backup plan.
Desperate for housing, Rahel was referred her to Mercy Housing Northwest by her social worker. “Relief came in a home. Walking through the doors of my apartment at Appian Way in Kent, I felt absolute relief that my kids had a safe place to sleep,” said Rahel.
Taking the Next Step
Rahel and her family took full advantage of the programs and services offered by the Resident Services team, including community gatherings, out-of-school activities, case management, and workforce development. But Rahel was determined to take another brave step in her life. While living at Appian Way, she returned to school with a desire to become a Licensed Practical Nurse.
With a degree, her family moved to King County Housing, but Rahel wasn’t done yet. She returned to school again, this time to become a Registered Nurse.
Giving Back to the Community
Today, Rahel works at a long-term care facility; she gives back to her community daily. And Rahel is now a homeowner. “I always wanted to go back to school, but I had to figure out how to balance the responsibilities of life. I knew an education was my chance to escape poverty,” said Rahel.
Her kids are shining brightly, too. Her son graduated high school earlier this year and just began classes at Harvard. Her second child is utilizing a running start and has big plans for the future. A third child has been added to the family, and everyone is thriving thanks to one determined mom.
At Mercy Housing Northwest, we believe a home is strong. A safe, clean, affordable home designed with equity and dignity in mind is a foundation from which life can blossom. Robust and enriched services targeted at the needs and aspirations of residents of all ages can change lives.
